the light issue #10
DESCRIPTION
A Publication of the Gregory Park SDA ChurchTRANSCRIPT
A Publication of the Gregory Park SDA Church Communication Department
June 2012 Issue #10
Page 2
Gregory Park Church ‘Armed’ and in Crusade Mode
Damian Wilson, Communication Director
T he Gregory Park Church switched into crusade mode and ‘armed’ for a spiritual battle. From June 17-June 22, the Church experienced a three night Revival se-ries, under the banner ‘Armed for the Conflict’ – as a
precursor to the ‘Empowering the Family Bible Series.’
The Revival opened on Sunday night, June 17 with Elder Wayne Harrison delivering a message he captioned ‘Spiritual Warfare; Are you Prepared?’ Elder Harrison charged members regarding preparation for the great conflict between the powers of darkness and righteousness. He placed the con-gregation on alert in anticipation of the Crusade, that we are preparing to take back all that the devil has stolen from us. The young elder with the big passion for Christ encouraged the brethren to be ready to take back our joy, our families, our friends, and to impact and be witnesses to this community. He further charged the brethren to be revived, lively, alert and ready to take on the conquest, but most importantly to be armed with
God’s weaponry.
Elder Harrison spoke to six key areas of prepara-tion for spiritual warfare citing texts from Isaiah 54:17
Ephesians 6:10-18 and II Timothy 2:3-4.
The second night’s presentation was delivered by First Elder, Cavan Davis. The ex-
perienced elder who is no stranger to proclaiming the Word of the Lord, expounded on the topic “The battle is the Lord’s.” Elder Davis closed with the hymn Sound the Battle Cry, citing the words:
Rouse, then, soldiers, rally round the banner,
Ready, steady, pass the word along;
Onward, forward, shout aloud, “Hosanna!”
Christ is Captain of the mighty throng.
This he proclaimed was our call to fight the battle against sin, with the Lord as our Leader and Protection.
The third and final presentation was made by Personal Ministries Leader Clive Ebanks. Bro. Ebanks titled his message ‘Free at last, free at last, thank God Almighty, Victory at last.’ Bro. Ebanks declared that “victory over sin and the world is only through our faith in God who is the same yesterday, today and forever.” He went on to say that victory of the saints was from the foundation of the world, sealed by Christ’s resurrec-tion, it is just for us to claim it!
During the month of June, the Church also stepped up its witnessing activities with the distribution of tracts, literature and church/crusade invitations in addition to a series of AY and Sunday night street meetings in the communities of Lesser Port-more, Watson Grove, Christian Gardens and Christian Pen.
The ‘Armed for the Conflict’ series was a lead up to the highly anticipated ‘Empowering the Family Bible Series’ Church Crusade with Evangelist Hopeton Moving. The four week Cru-sade will run from July 1-July 28, at the Gregory Park SDA Church.
Special 16 page
10th Issue
During the month of June, the Church also
stepped up its witnessing activities with the
distribution of tracts, literature and
church/crusade invitations in addition to a
series of AY and Sunday night street meet-
ings in the communities of Lesser Portmore,
Watson Grove, Christian Gardens and
Christian Pen
Personal Ministries Leader, Clive Ebanks, presents Friday evening’s
Message during the three night ‘Armed for the Conflict’ Revival Series
Quick fact about the Adventist Church
Issue #10
This
Issue
From the Pastor Adventist Resources
The Light Scenes from the Quarter
Teach Weekend Singles’ Convention Prophecy Corner
Father’s Day
Church Crusade
Youth Retreat
Where are they Now?
Publications
There are some 270,000 Adventists worshipping at more than 650
churches in Jamaica. Church officials estimate that about one in every
eleven people in Jamaica is an Adventist. Source: Nigel Coke/ANN
Calendar of Events
Michca-Mae Bonner Tashawna Harrison Wayne Harrison
Marjorie Stone
Editorial
Committee Damian Wilson Fiona Dyer Wilson
Sports and Christianity Health as a Lifestyle
Adventist Medical School Opens in Nigeria
The Light
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Below are links to important information and resources related to the
Seventh-day Adventist Church
Blondel CAMPBELL
Pastor, Gregory Park
Circuit of Churches
▌The Single Adventist is the best free dating website
created by Adventists - http://thesingleadventist.com/
▌A new Seventh-day Adventist world church initiative titled “Revived by His Word,” aimed at strengthening the spiritual experience of each church member http://revivedbyhisword.org/
▌Churchpond is a network and website which streams live and pre-recorded Seventh-day Adventist program-ming 24 hours a day, seven days a week http://churchpond.com/
▌ enditnow is a global campaign to raise awareness and advocate for the end of violence against women and
girls around the world - http://www.enditnow.org/
▌The Official Website of the NCU Media Group which include NCU Radio and NCU TV http://ncumediagroup.com/
O nce again, the members of the Gregory Park SDA
Church have demonstrated that the Church is
alive and vibrant as we ended the second quarter with a
range of programs that have greatly motivated us in our
walk with our Saviour.
I must express commendation to every member,
especially Department Leaders and Elders for their untiring
work to ensure the success of the following programs:
Women Ministry Day, Men’s Day, Deacons’ and Deacon-
esses’ Day, Teach Weekend and Couples’ morning out. The
experiences of these special days were enriching and have
left an indelible imprint in our memory.
Matthew 24:14 reminds us: This gospel of the
kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness
unto all nations; and then shall the end come. It is with this
in mind that we look ahead to our upcoming crusade,
slated for July 1, 2012. Our Bible workers have been out in
the field, every member has done their part to influence a
soul for the kingdom. As such we are looking forward to a
time of rejoicing as we bring in the sheaves of souls ready
for the kingdom and the sowing of the gospel seed in the
hearts of men, women, boys and girls.
I encourage us all that in spite of the vicissitudes
of this present life let us continue to be faithful stewards of
the gospel and live a life of love that will lift up Jesus.
God bless you.
Issue #10
(left) Pastor Derrick
Bignal offers the
closing prayer on
Education Day, April
28, 2012. Standing
beside Pastor Bignal
is his wife and Divine
Hour speaker for
Educ at ion D ay ,
Yvonne Bignal. Sis
Bignal is the Vice
President for Student
Relations at Northern
Caribbean University.
(right) Elder Janet
Able-Simpson offers
special prayer for
students sitting exter-
nal and final exams
◄Members of the
AY Council along
with some addi-
tional hands hud-
dle together after
their Labour Day
project where they
helped to paint the
Christian Gardens
Basic School on
May 23, 2012
Dr. Newton Cleg-
horn, Dean of the
School of Religion
and Theology,
Northern Carib-
bean University,
delivers the divine
hour message on
Men’s Day, June 2,
2012 ▼
▲ Personal Ministries Leader Clive Ebanks offers a tract and
invitation card to a resident of the Gregory Park Community
during a walk through the area, Sabbath June 2, 2012.
The Light
The Couples of Gregory Park Church enjoy an early morning outing at the Hope Gardens, with breakfast and games, May 27, 2012
(above)▲ Members of the Youth Choir sing the song of Meditation, “He Will Not Let
you Fall” during the Armed for the Conflict Revival, Wednesday June 20, 2012
(top right) Elder Sharonmae Shirley, First Elder of Tredegar Park SDA is all smiles as
she prepares to take the podium and deliver the Divine Hour Message on Women’s
Day, June 9, 2012
(bottom right)► Sis Sophia Robinson and Sis Tarsha Blackwood-Davis participate in
the footwashing ahead of the Communion Service, Sabbath June 16, 2012
Issue #10
In a Christian household, the husband is the priest. He is supposed to lead the family in worship and obedience to God. He is the chief bread-winner/provider for the family. He is also the protector of the family and is to en-sure that his family is secure.
The role of a father is to provide emotional, spiritual and financial leadership for the fam-ily and to be a good role model and true representative of Christ in the home.
The role of the father in a Christian home is to provide spiritual direction and leadership by instructing his fam-ily to obey the will of God and provide the living example which will make it easier for them to know and under-stand God.
FATHER’S DAY is a day honoring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. Many countries, including Jamaica, celebrated Father’s Day on June 17. In acknowledging and
celebrating fathers, The Light asked some of the fathers at Gregory Park Church.
“WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A FATHER IN A CHRISTIAN HOME?”
Proud father Barrington Carter
with son Myles
Mboya Gordon with sons
Daniel (left) and Michael (right)
Damion Brown with his little girl
Alsunea
Kerlew Francis with son
Kamali and daughter Kaliyah
The Davis’ - Urian, Jean-Mark, Zachary and father,
Cavan Davis
The Bible says 'the father is the head of the family' and as such he is expected to guide the family spiritually and so-cially. A father in a Christian home should also provide for the family and set a good example for his children
Terence McLaughlin with his father
Royston McLaughlin
The husband and father in the home is the head and priest of the household. The wife looks to him for love and sympathy and for aid in the training of the children. Children look to their father for support and guidance.
As a Christian father, I must provide and live a Godly life so that my children can see Jesus in me and want to serve Him too.
The Light
In keeping with family and child month this quarter, our recommendation
for must read publications are as follows:
Child Guidance covers the essentials of parenting, with chapters on specific building blocks of
character, such as purity, cheerfulness, self-control, reverence, respect, honesty, cleanliness,
and courtesy. It includes guidance on how to teach self-denial, how to mould the will, rein-
force good habits, evoke penitence without resentment, and conduct effective family wor-
ships.
Publications of the Quarter
T he name Cleston Hamilton elicits
warm smiles from many members
of the Gregory Park SDA Church. He and
his family served the Lord and the
church so faithfully that members who
knew them readily recall fond memories
of their ministry and service to the
church. The converse is also true; the
name Gregory Park SDA elicits an
equally warm response from Bro. Hamil-
ton who fondly remembers July 13,
1980 as that memorable day when he
became a baptized member of the Greg-
ory Park Church. He and his family be-
came such dedicated workers for God
that there was hardly a member at that
time who was not touched in one way or
another by their influence.
Some of the church offices
Brother Hamilton held included First
Elder on two separate occasions; Lay
Activities leader now known as Personal
Ministries Director; Family Life Director;
Health and Temperance leader and Sab-
bath School teacher. He remembers well
that while he was a Sabbath School
teacher, Elder Cavan Davis, the current
First Elder, first sat in his Sabbath
School class. He is particularly pleased
at how well Elder Davis has blossomed
into a stalwart for the Lord.
Brother Hamilton’s wife and
daughters stood by him in ministry and
are fondly remembered for their beauti-
ful singing. Sister Hamilton and Sister
Ferguson were known for their awesome
duet and his daughters though very
young at the time sang in a trio with Sis.
Jeudeen Chambers.
In addition to his work in the
local church, Bro. Hamilton was a colpor-
teur for over 25 years. In 2004 he was
adjudged the champion colporteur for
Central Jamaica Conference and West
Indies Union!
He was an electrician par excel-
lence and is responsible for the electri-
cal wiring of the current church building
and the installation of the chandeliers
which so beautifully grace the edifice.
Brother Hamilton and his family
relocated to Rosewell, Clarendon and he
transferred his membership about
2001. In 2008 he migrated to the Cay-
man Islands where he is now a member
of the Maranatha SDA Church and cur-
rently an Elder, Sabbath School Superin-
tendent; Bible Instructor for Bible Class
and Health Ministries director for two
consecutive years. He also occasionally
does Bible Work .
Although Bro. Hamilton is in
another part of the vineyard, he contin-
ues his work in service for the Lord. He
admonishes us to, “keep up the good
work. Continue to work for the Lord and
do what you can to finish the work”. He
sends special greetings to the Gregory
Park Church family and still maintains
contact where possible with some mem-
bers.
Have you ever wondered how you can get insights on the secrets of good parenting? As a
parent, you try to show your child so many things. But what will shape their characters
most? What will they look back on most fondly when they grow up? What will count the
most? What can you do that will really stick with your child?
What My Parents Did Right by Mark Finley and Steven Mosley, answers these ques-
tions. Drawing from the testimonies of several young adults, the authors reveal time-tested
methods for teaching children right from wrong, making children feel loved, transmitting a
positive attitude about God and faith, and more.
- Marjorie Stone
Elder Cleston Hamilton
Issue #10
Horse Strength and Power in Battle Job 39:19, Psalms 147:10, Proverbs 21:31
Dragon Satan or his agency Isaiah 27:1;30:6, Psalm 74:13-14; Rev. 12:7-9; Ezekiel 29:3; Jeremiah 51:34
Beast Kingdom / government / political power Daniel 7:17, 23
Lamb Jesus / sacrifice John 1:29; 1 Corinthians 5:7
Lion Jesus/Powerful King i.e. Babylon Rev. 5:4-9, Jer. 50:43-44, Dan. 7:4,17,23
Bear Destructive Power / Medo Persia Proverbs 28:15, 2 Kings 2:23-24, Daniel 7:5
Leopard Greece Daniel 7:6
Serpent Satan Revelation 12:9; 20:2
Tongue Language / Speech Exodus 4:10
Wolf Disguised Enemies that hunt in a time of darkness
Matthew 7:15
Dove Holy Spirit Mark 1:10
Ram Medo Persia Daniel 8:20
Goat Greece Daniel 8:21
Horn King or kingdom Daniel 7:24; 8:5, 21, 22; Zechariah 1:18, 19; Revelation 17:12
Wings Speed / Protection / Deliverance Deuteronomy 28:49, Matthew 23:37
Prophecy W hy are Bible prophecies shrouded in symbols? In Luke 8:10
Jesus said, "To you it has been given to know the mysteries of
the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, ‘that
seeing they may not see, And hearing they may not under-
stand”. Many of the end time prophecies were given while the prophets were in a
hostile foreign land. One reason God hid the prophecies in symbols was to pro-
tect the messages. Here we look at some of the symbols used and where they are
found in the bible. This quarter, study these symbols and the reference to gain
the keys to unlocking the prophecies, especially those in Daniel and Revelation.
Next quarter we will use these symbols to unlock the prophecies recorded in the
Book of Daniel.
Animals or parts thereof
Woman, Pure True Church Jeremiah 6:2; 2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 5:23-27
Woman, Corrupt Apostate church Ezk. 16:15-58; 23:2-21; Hos. 2:5; 3:1; Rev. 14:4
Thief Suddenness of Jesus' coming 1 Thessalonians 5:2-4; 2 Peter 3:10
Hand Deeds / Works Ecclesiastes 9:10, Isaiah 59:6
Forehead Mind Deuteronomy 6:6-8, Romans 7:25; Ezekiel 3:8, 9
Forehead Your Walk / Direction Genesis 19:2, Psalm 119:105
Eyes Spiritual Discernment Matthew 13:10-17, 1 John 2:11
Skin Christ's righteousness Exodus 12:5, 1 Peter 1:19, Isaiah 1:4-6
Harlot Apostate church / religion Isaiah 1:21-27; Jeremiah 3:1-3; 6-9
Heads Major powers / rulers / governments Revelation 17:3, 9, 10
People and body parts
Cont’d on following page
The Light
W hen chancellor Gilbert Wari pronounced the
words of inauguration on Friday, June 1,
2012, Babcock University [BU] in Nigeria be-
came the fourth Seventh-day Adventist medi-
cal school worldwide, and the first on the African conti-
nent. Some 500 attendees witnessed the establishment
of BU’s eighth academic unit, the school of medicine
named in honor of world-renowned neurosurgeon Benja-
min S. Carson, Sr.
Representing the Adventist Church’s world presi-
dent Ted N. C. Wilson and the General Conference of Sev-
enth-day Adventists were general vice president Benjamin
Schoun, along with his counterpart Delbert Baker and
world education director Lisa Beardsley-Hardy. Several
members of BU’s governing council, including Chair and
Prochancellor Oyeleke Owolabi, and Vice Chair Bassey
Udoh, represented the West Central Africa Division, BU’s
home division. Vice Chancellor Makinde introduced and
welcomed George and Dorothy Bolleteri, President and
CEO of Medical Bridges, a Houston, Texas, based organi-
zation that was responsible for assisting BU with obtaining
80 percent of the medical equipment available for the
school of medi-
cine. .
B a b c o c k
University is a pri-
vate Christian co-
educational Nige-
rian university
owned and oper-
ated by the Sev-
enth-day Adventist
Church in Nigeria.
The university is
located equidis-
tant between
Ibadan and Lagos.
The university was established as the Adventist College of
West Africa (ACWA) in 1959, initially with 7 students. In
1975, it changed its name to Adventist Seminary of West
Africa (ASWA). The university was officially inaugurated on
April 20, 1999.
Adventist Medical School opens in Nigeria ■ School named in honor of world-renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson
LAEL CAESAR, Adventist Review
Other Symbols
Lamp Word of God Psalm 119:105
Oil Holy Spirit Zechariah 4:2-6; Revelation 4:5
Sword Word of God Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12
Bread Word of God John 6:35, 51, 52, 63
Angel Messenger Daniel 8:16; 9:21; Luke 1:19, 26; Hebrews 1:14
Babylon Apostasy / confusion / rebellion Gen. 10:8-10; 11:6-9; Rev. 18:2, 3; 17:1-5
Mark Sign or seal of approval or disapproval Ezekiel 9:4; Romans 4:11; Revelation 13:17; 14:9-11; 7:2, 3
Seal Sign or mark of approval or disapproval Romans 4:11; Revelation 7:2, 3
White Robes Victory/righteousness Revelation 19:8; 3:5; 7:14
Time 360 Day Daniel 4:16, 23, 25, 32; 7:25; Daniel 11:13
Times 720 Days Daniel 7:25, Revelation 12:6,14, 13:5
Day Literal year Ezekiel 4:6; Numbers 14:34
Trumpet Loud warning of God's approach Exodus 19:16-17, Joshua 6:4-5
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
- 2 Timothy 2:15
- Compiled by Elder Wayne Harrison
Prophecy Corner...continued from previous page
Issue #10
Pastor Blondel Campbell during his Friday evening presentation
of Teach Weekend, May 18, 2012
T he words ‘Reverence my Sanctuary’ is emblazoned over the altar of many Adventist Churches across the world including the Gregory Park SDA Church. It is a clear acknowledgement of the importance of reverence, to worship.
The second in the quarterly ‘Teach Weekend’ series was held from May 18-20, 2012 – this time focusing on ‘Reverence.’ Pastor Blondel Campbell took the responsibility for speaking to his congregation about the importance of reverence inside as well as outside the sanctuary.
Though the turnout for Friday evening’s presentation was small, the message was no less impactful. The theme was ‘Heart of Worship: Journey into His presence.’ Quoting Joe Horness, worship was defined as the natural, heartfelt, genuine, emotional response to the character, the works, and the grace of God! or ‘active response to God whereby we declare His worth (Allen and Borror, p. 16)’ Pastor Campbell stated that it was only through recognition of the impor-tance and value of worship that we can come to a place of true and authentic reverence for God and His Sanctuary.
For Sabbath’s divine hour presentation, the leader of the flock spoke squarely on the topic of Reverence. He declared that reverence is seeing God as high and lifted up - Holy, omnipotent and infinite. And seeing ourselves for what we are. Pastor Camp-bell opined that titles such as ‘Reverend’ as used by some Christian leaders or ‘His Worship’ assigned to Mayors, are titles that should be shunned by sinful human beings. Instead these should be re-served for a sinless Saviour and Christ.
The series continued with a Bible Class presentation and closed with Sunday night’s presentation. The Sunday Night presen-tation was conducted by Elder Edward Chambers. Elder Chambers led the congregation to contemplate and discuss very sobering statements on Reverence taken mainly from Messages to Young People by EG White, one of which reads:
‘I am sorry to see that many…who profess religion do not have a knowledge of a change of heart. There is no transformation of character. They do not realize that it is a solemn thing to profess to be a Christian (p. 267)
One by one, thought provoking statements such as these were presented. We were reminded of the great danger in being indifferent to religion and that we should train our minds to focus on the eternal and avoid the frivolous. The parallel drawn between meeting with earthly dignitaries and meeting with the God of the Universe made it clear that special preparation and care as to one’s conduct in the House of the Lord are appropriate and necessary. As such parents should teach their children how to behave in the House of the Lord and to practice being reverent themselves as irreverence sets a poor example for others. . Finally, we were admonished to hold steadfast to eternal things and our relationship with God for the closer our relationship with God, the more we will see our need for humility in His pres-ence.
REVERENCE my Sanctuary
Teach Weekend Teach Weekend
- Damian Wilson
The Light
Issue #10
Health as a Lifestyle
N o single food can reduce your risk of cancer, but the right combination of foods may help make a differ-
ence. At mealtimes, strike a balance of at least two-thirds plant-based foods and no more than one-third ani-mal protein. This is an important can-cer fighting tool, according to the American Institute for Cancer Re-search. Check out better and worse choices for your plate.
Fighting Cancer with Colour .
Fruits and vegetables are rich in can-cer-fighting nutrients -- and the more color, the more nutrients they contain. These foods can help lower your risk in a second way, too, when they help you reach and maintain a healthy body weight. Carrying extra pounds increases the risk for multiple can-cers, including colon, esophagus, and kidney cancers. Aim for at least five servings a day, prepared in a healthy way.
The Cancer-Fighting Breakfast .
Folate is an important B vitamin that may help protect against cancers of the colon, rectum, and breast. You can find it in abundance on the break-fast table. Fortified breakfast cereals and whole wheat products are good sources of folate. So are orange juice, m e l o n s , a n d s t r a w b e r r i e s . More Folate-Rich Food .
Other good sources of folate are as-paragus and eggs. You can also find it in chicken liver, beans, sunflower seeds, and leafy green vegetables like spinach or romaine lettuce. Ac-cording to the American Cancer Soci-ety, the best way to get folate is not from a pill, but by eating enough fruits, vegetables, and enriched grain products.
Pass up the deli-counter
An occasional sandwich or hot dog probably isn't going to hurt you. But cutting back on processed meats like hot dogs and turkey-slices may help lower your risk of colorectal and stom-ach cancers. Also, eating meats that have been preserved by smoking or
with salt raises your exposure to agents that can potentially cause can-cer.
Cancer Fighting tomatoes .
Whether it's the lycopene -- the pig-ment that gives tomatoes their red color -- or something else isn't clear. But some studies have linked eating tomatoes to reduced risk of several types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Studies also suggest that processed tomato products such as juice, sauce, or paste increase the cancer-fighting potential.
Tea’s Anticancer-potential .
Even though the evidence is still spotty, tea, especially green tea, may be a strong cancer fighter. In labora-tory studies, green tea has slowed or prevented the development of cancer in colon, liver, breast, and prostate cells. It also had a similar effect in lung tissue and skin. And in some longer term studies, tea was associ-ated with lower risks for bladder,
Continued on next page...
The Light
stomach, and pancreatic cancers.
Grapes and cancer
Grapes and grape juice, especially purple and red grapes, contain res-veratrol. Resveratrol has strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory proper-ties. In laboratory studies, it has pre-vented the kind of damage that can trigger the cancer process in cells. There is not enough evidence to say that eating grapes or drinking grape juice or wine can prevent or treat can-cer.
Eliminate Alcohol to lower cancer
risk
Cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, esophagus, liver, and breast are all linked with drinking alcohol. Alcohol may also raise the risk for cancer of the colon and rectum. Even two drinks for men and one for women elevates the risk.
Water and other fluids can protect .
Water not only quenches your thirst, but it may protect you against bladder cancer. The lower risk comes from wa-ter diluting concentrations of potential cancer-causing agents in the bladder. Also, drinking more fluids causes you to urinate more frequently. That less-ens the amount of time those agents
stay in contact with the bladder lining.
The Mighty Bean
Beans are so good for you, it's no sur-prise they may help fight cancer, too. They contain several potent phyto-chemicals that may protect the body's cells against damage that can lead to cancer. In the lab these substances slowed tumor growth and prevented tumors from releasing substances that damage nearby cells.
The Cabbage Family vs. Cancer .
Cruciferous vegetables include broc-coli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussel sprouts, bok choy, and kale. These members of the cabbage family make an excellent stir fry and can really liven up a salad. But most importantly, com-ponents in these vegetables may help your body defend against cancers such as colon, breast, lung, and cervix.
Dark Green Leafy Vegetables . Dark green leafy vegetables such as mustard greens, lettuce, kale, chicory, spinach, and chard have an abun-dance of fiber, folate, and carotenoids. These nutrients may help protect against cancer of the mouth, larynx, pancreas, lung, skin, and stomach.
Protection from an Exotic Spice
Curcumin is the main ingredient in the Indian spice turmeric (which is used to make curry) and a potential cancer fighter. Lab studies show it can sup-press the transformation, proliferation, and invasion of cancerous cells for a wide array of cancers .
Cooking Methods Matter
How you cook meat can make a differ-ence in how big a cancer risk it poses. Frying, grilling, and broiling meats at very high temperatures causes chemi-cals to form that may increase cancer risk. Other cooking methods such as stewing, braising, or steaming appear to produce fewer of those chemicals. And when you do stew the meat, re-member to add plenty of healthy, pro-tective vegetables.
Pass on the sugar
Sugar may not cause cancer directly.
But it may displace other nutrient-rich
foods that help protect against cancer.
And it increases calorie counts, which
contributes to overweight and obesity.
Excess weight can be a cancer risk.
Fruit offers a sweet alternative in a vi-
tamin-rich package.
Source: WebMD
Reviewed by Andrew Seibert, MD September 9, 2011
Issue #10
T his year the quadrennial event, the summer Olym-pics, will be staged in Lon-don from July 21- August
12. For Seventh-day Adventists, as we draw near to this event the question for contemplation - does competitive sports and athletics have a place in the life of the Christian?
Questions such as these urge the Adventist Christian believer to find balance in our answer and to always rest on the side that whatever we do, it should be done to bring glory and hon-our to God and never to self. How then should the Adventist Christian treat or view participation and in a broader sense the celebration of competitive sports at any level: school or commu-nity or even as spectacular as the world stage such as the Olympics?
The apostle Paul made refer-ences to athletic competition in 1 Co-rinthians 9:24, 25 and Hebrews 12:1 and draws on the prowess of the ath-letes in his day to urge the Christian believers into thoughts of spiritual en-durance.
Likewise as Adventists we can appreciate and celebrate athletic talent, skill and success in others. However we must always recognize and acknowl-edge that it is God who gives these talents to compete at an extraordinary level. Therefore we should not glory in the athletes themselves and the compe-tition so much so that we make them into idols and be absorbed by the per-sonalities. Even in the pursuit of patri-otism and national pride, we must be mindful of the levels to which we be-come engrossed in the celebration of success. Even in our love and apprecia-tion for athletic display, let us not rob God of absolute time and devotion as many of these events are held on Sab-baths and distract us from our spiritual commitment.
The Adventist Church’s official statement on competition serves as the
guideline “to individual members, churches, conferences, as it relates to our involvement in sporting events that lead us in high level of rivalry and competition.” The church holds the position that “In any church or school situation involving organized physical activities, the results can be beneficial if the following ideals prevail: coopera-tiveness, helpfulness, selflessness, a cordial spirit, playing for enjoyment rather than only to win, and observing the rules in spirit and not merely in letter.”
E l l e n W h i t e s t a t e s , “Recreation, when true to its name, tends to strengthen and build up” (Ed 207). It will not foster selfishness, ri-valry, hostility, strife, love of domi-nance, love of pleasure, or unwhole-some excitement.
Cleary the church’s statements in tandem with the Spirit of Prophecy wholly support each member consis-tently involved in recreational activities that engender physical exercise which aids the total development of all the faculties (spiritual, mental, physical, social and emotional). In other words, recreation or physical activity that brings honour to God will have at least three key objectives: (1) developing the character to include self-discipline, self-reliance, emotional control, respect for the rights of others, and moral and ethical conduct based on Christian ide-als; (2) provide proper physical experi-ences and recognition of achievement that will contribute to self-discovery, emotional stability, and cooperative social relationships and (3) develop the spiritual qualities and social traits that make up a good citizen with Christian morals and ethics to guide in human relationships.
Is there any avenue that lends itself to Seventh-day Adventists par-ticipating in competitive sporting ac-tivities such as school, competitive sporting leagues, etc?
As it relates to these specific situations there is clear stance for Sev-enth-day Adventists. We are guided to minimize and avoid engagement in ac-tivities that foster rivalry and encour-age a competitive spirit. Specific situa-tions such as those mentioned above would be classified as highly competi-tive and lead to the development of rivalries. Why this stance? In the pur-suit of a healthy body and mind The Servant of Lord writes . . . God's plan of life has a place for every human be-ing. Each is to improve his talents to the utmost; and faithfulness in doing this, be the gifts few or many, entitles one to honour. In God's plan there is no place for selfish rivalry" (Ed 225, 226).
Hence through divine and di-rect inspiration, God wants to lead his people to wholesome recreational and physical activities that lead us to find fellowship and give glory to God. In a society that thrives on competition and rivalry we must make every attempt to inculcate within our children, warnings of engaging in highly competitive ac-tivities. As the Apostle alluded to in scripture, we are all spiritual athletes in the Christian race and as such we should allow God to direct our motives in our pursuit of athletic activities whether we participate or simply enjoy and celebrate the talents of others.
In having a balanced approach, we can engage in recreation that may involve teams, as long as we conduct ourselves in a manner that displays brotherly love, seeks to promote devel-opment of each believer and is utilized as a means of incorporation of others into the fellowship. These motives will have greater and heavenly results.
- Elder Wayne Harrison
The Light
The Light
JULY
Evangelism Impact Phase III
Mon 2 Pastors’ and Bible Workers’ Meeting –
CJC Board Room
Wed 4 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention –
Manchester (Christiana Church)
Thur 5 2nd Quarter Reports due at CJC Office
Sab 7 Day of Prayer and Fasting
Sab 7 Vision One Million Rally (P.M.)
Mon 9 2nd Quarter Statistical Report due at C.J.C. Office
Wed 11 Executive Committee Meeting
Sab 14+ World Mission Budget
Sab 14* Tell the World: Media Ministry
Sab 14 New Members’ Convocation – Clarendon (May Pen
Church)
Sab 14 Parish Federation Bible Bowl Finals
Sab 14 Church Membership Count (All Churches)
Tue-Tue
17-24 Summer Camp – Teen (Camp Verley)
Sab 21 Communication Day
Sab-Sab
21*-28 Consolidation Emphasis: Church History Week
Tue-Tue
24-31 Summer Camp – Junior (Camp Verley)
Thur 26 Pastors’ Community Outreach – Clarendon
Sab 28 Bible Emphasis and Church Heritage Day
Conference-wide
Tue-Tue 31
-Aug 7 Summer Camp – Senior & Reunion Camp
(Camp Verley)
AUGUST
Wed-Fri
1-31 Abuse Prevention Month
Wed-Fri
1-31 Vacation Bible School (All Churches)
Wed 1 Emancipation Day
Sab 4* Children’s Ministries Emphasis Day
Sab 4 Global Mission Evangelism
Sab 4 Small Group Ministries Sabbath
Sab 4 Day of Prayer for the Nation, Jamaica Union
Mon 6 Independence Day
Fri-Sun
10-12 Graduation, NCU
Sab 11* University Education Promotion Day
Sab 18 Abuse Prevention Emphasis Day
Sab 18 Youth Day
Sab 18 Church Membership Count (All Churches)
Sun 19 Pastors, Elders, and Youth - Sports Day (NCU) -
Conference-wide
Wed 22 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention – Clarendon
(Lionel Town Church)
Thur 23 Conference Workers’ Picnic
Sab 25 CJC Connect – Manchester
Sun 26 Art and Vintage Expo (Mandeville Church)
Wed 29 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention
Manchester (Mandeville Church)
SEPTEMBER
Sab 1 St. Catherine Bible Bowl Finals
Sab-Sun
1-30 Lay Evangelism Month Subscription Material & Miss.
Magazine Promotion Month
Mon 3 Teachers’ Meeting (Willowdene Group of Schools)
Sab 8* Family Togetherness Day
Sab 8*+ Adventist Mission Emphasis (Offering)
Sab-Sab
8-15 Adventist Review (Annual subscription promotion)
Sun 9 Leaders’ Council (Camp Verley)
Wed 12 Executive Committee Meeting
Sab 15 Youth Spiritual Commitment Day
Wed 19 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention – Clarendon
(Chapelton Church)
Sab 22 Pathfinder Day
Sab 22 Special Offering (District Projects)
Sab-Sab
22-29 Health & Health Care Emphasis Week
Sab 29# Vision One Million Baptismal Day
Sab 29 13th Sabbath Offering (Southern Africa-Indian Ocean
Division)
Sab 29 Conference Bible Bowl Finals
Sab 29 Book and Nutrition Centre Book Review
(During Personal Ministry Time - Conference-wide)
*Programme provided by the General Conference or by the Inter-
American Division
+Worldwide Offering. Special offerings are included in the system-
atic plan of the Division
# Organized Baptisms are conducted and recognition of those
baptized during the quarter